School Resource Officer

Mebane, City of (NC); Mebane (NC); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

The City of Mebane seeks a School Resource Officer (SRO) within the Police Department's Special Operations Unit to maintain campus safety and engage with students, staff, and the school community.

Ideal candidates have a high school diploma or GED, with prior SRO or law enforcement experience preferred. North Carolina Basic Law Enforcement Training Certification is required to remain employed.

Qualifications

• Graduation from high school or GED.
• Experience in school resource officer / law enforcement work is desired; an associate’s degree in criminal justice or relevant field may be preferred.

Responsibilities

• Maintain campus safety with visible presence to deter crime.
• Enforce applicable laws and school policies; conduct investigations as needed.
• Respond to incidents and emergencies within the school environment.
• Deliver educational programs on topics such as safety and youth outreach.
• Build positive relationships with students, staff, parents, and administrators.

Skills

Conflict resolution

Emergency response

Verbal & written communication

Relationship building

School-based policing

Education

High school diploma/GED

Associate degree in criminal justice

Job description

General Statement of Duties

Performs general law enforcement duties with a primary assignment as a School Resource Officer (SRO). Responsibilities include maintaining a safe and secure school environment through proactive policing, emergency response, and positive engagement with students, staff, and the community.

Distinguishing Features of the Class

This position performs sworn law enforcement duties within a school setting as part of the Police Department’s Special Operations Unit. The School Resource Officer is responsible for maintaining campus safety, enforcing laws and school policies, and fostering positive relationships with students, faculty, and parents.

The SRO must demonstrate sound judgment, critical thinking, and strong communication skills. Responsibilities require the ability to de-escalate conflicts, resolve problems effectively, and respond appropriately to emergencies in a school environment. The employee must maintain a visible and approachable presence while upholding professional law enforcement standards. Work is performed under the supervision of a sergeant and is evaluated based on performance, initiative, and effectiveness. This assignment provides opportunities for advanced training and professional development in preparation for future leadership roles.

Illustrative Examples of Work

• Maintains a visible presence on campus to deter criminal activity and promote safety
• Enforces applicable laws and school policies; conducts investigations as needed
• Responds to incidents and emergencies within the school environment
• Delivers educational programs on topics such as drug prevention, internet safety, and personal responsibility
• Builds and maintains positive relationships with students, staff, parents, and administrators
• Serves as a mentor and trusted resource for students
• Assists in the development and implementation of school safety plans and emergency response drills
• Collaborates with school administration and staff on safety and security initiatives
• Coordinates with Special Operations, Patrol, and Criminal Investigations Division (CID) personnel
• Prepares reports and maintains documentation related to incidents and enforcement actions

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Working knowledge of school-based policing practices and juvenile law
• Knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, as well as school system policies
• Skill in conflict resolution, de-escalation, and problem-solving
• Ability to respond effectively and appropriately in emergency situations
• Ability to establish and maintain positive relationships with youth and adults
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency in the use of standard law enforcement equipment

Physical Requirements

This position requires medium physical exertion, including lifting up to 50 pounds occasionally, 20 pounds frequently, and 10 pounds constantly. Duties require visual acuity for report writing, monitoring activities, and operating a computer. The employee must be able to apply appropriate physical force when necessary, including the use of deadly force.

Working Conditions

Work is performed primarily within a school environment, with both indoor and outdoor responsibilities. The employee may be exposed to noise, varying weather conditions, and potentially volatile situations involving students or members of the public. Exposure to communicable diseases and other hazards is possible; appropriate precautions are required.

Education and Experience

• Graduation from high school or GED equivalency
• Experience in school resource officer / law enforcement work is desired as is an associate’s degree in criminal justice or relevant field.

Special Requirements

• Valid North Carolina Driver’s License (for entry into class)
• Must have the ability to obtain (and maintain) Basic Law Enforcement Certification (BLET) as a law enforcement officer by the North Carolina Criminal Justice Standards Commission (required to be continuously employed).
• Preference would be for candidates to possess current law enforcement certification through the North Carolina Criminal Justice Standards Commission.

Minimum Qualifications for Becoming a NC PoliceOfficer

• U.S citizen
• Possess a valid driver’s license
• At least 20 years of age
• Possess a high school diploma or GED
• Possess a NC Basic Law Enforcement Training Certification